European Yacht of the Year- Beneteau Oceanis 45

They've done it again. Beneteau, possibly the best known cruising brand in the world and always an ideal choice for coastal cruising, has just won another accolade as the European Yacht of the Year for 2012, in the Family Cruiser category.

The Oceanis 45 has won this coveted title, one of four yachts chosen in their own category. The yacht was first shown in 2011 at the Cannes Boat Show, so it's fresh on the market.

These include a well-balanced sail plan, a rig that's stepped further aft, a Targa bar above the companionway that improves the sheeting angle of the main sail, wide and gently descending companionway steps, a large and well-organised cockpit and a stern hatch that doubles as a swim platform when lowered.

The new generation hull that delivers comfortable yet fast sailing was also seen as a noteworthy feature.

Upon receiving the award Jean-Francois Lair, Export Manager for Beneteau said, 'We are very proud of the new Oceanis 45 and to get this industry recognition is fantastic. I am sure that the intelligent design features and versatility of this yacht will make it extremely popular with cruising sailors.'

[Sorry, this content could not be displayed]
While the Oceanis 45 is every inch a Beneteau, for the new design, the cockpit and mainsail arch are one of the pronounced differences between the 45 compared to the previous generation. The company has added the fixed mainsail arch and moved the mast back to 47% from the bow.

The open transom has a bathing platform. What is interesting is that can be closed up while underway and then opened at anchor for easy water access - an excellent feature for a cruising boat.